Cancer Survival Rates Rise, But Young Survivors Need More Support
Seven out of ten cancer patients now survive for more than five years, a testament to advancements in medicine. However, survival isn’t always synonymous with a full return to everyday life, notably for young adults diagnosed during their formative years.
Recent National cancer Registration Statistics (2018-2022) reveal a 72.9% five-year relative survival rate, representing over 1.59 million people living with a cancer diagnosis. Despite this progress, many survivors grapple with lasting physical challenges like fatigue, pain, adn sleep disorders, alongside social hurdles impacting relationships and employment.
For those diagnosed in adolescence or young adulthood, the impact can be particularly profound, potentially hindering crucial social and professional advancement. Samsung Seoul Hospital data shows young cancer patients (15-39) experience depression and anxiety at 2.6 times the rate of those aged 65 and older.
Currently, support systems are fragmented. Pediatric cancer patients benefit from integrated support, and seniors have access to welfare services. However, young adult survivors often rely on private foundations and organizations.
Initiatives like the ‘Reboot’ program, a collaboration between BMS Pharmaceuticals and the Milal Welfare Foundation, are bridging this gap. Reboot provides financial and emotional support to low-income young adults (19-39) who have completed cancer treatment. Applications for the 8th cohort are open until September 10th.
Park Jung-won, a Reboot participant, found employment at a salad store after thyroid cancer surgery. She emphasizes the need for dedicated support for young survivors, and now aims to help others navigate similar challenges.
Experts, like Jang Yoon-jung of the National Cancer Center, stress the importance of national-level support to ensure young cancer survivors can reintegrate into society and build fulfilling futures. The Center is actively working to improve employment opportunities for this population, including surveying pediatric cancer survivors.
